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DESCRIPTION:

The Department:

Silicon Valley Power (SVP) is a not-for-profit electric municipal utility of Santa Clara, CA, serving residents and businesses for over 120 years. SVP provides power to nearly 55,000 customers, at rates 25 to 48 percent below neighboring communities. SVP is the only full service, vertically integrated publicly owned utility in Silicon Valley owning generation, transmission and distribution assets. As a Public Electric Utility, Santa Clara’s Silicon Valley Power is not driven by profits, as reflected in its significant lower utility rates when compared to other private sector utilities. Silicon Valley Power is community and policy driven, which is reflected in the many green policies that it promotes, reduced rates and its strategic plan. Silicon Valley Power is one of few public electric utilities in California with an upward trajectory of growth. In 2017, Silicon Valley Power also achieved 36% renewable and 72% HGH free energy and, since January 2018, Silicon Valley Power has been delivering GHG-free energy to all residential customers. All this was accomplished while maintaining the lowest electricity rates in Santa Clara County.

 

The Position: (add details below)

Silicon Valley Power (SVP) is seeking a dynamic, engaging and highly qualified professionals for one vacant unclassified management positions of Principal Electric Utility Engineer in Engineering division under our Customer Development and Project Management groups.

 

 

Engineering Division

 

This  position will lead an engineering team that will include substation engineering, Transmission system engineering and distribution system engineering. This position will be responsible for performing and managing the design of substation and transmission line projects from conception through construction and commissioning. This position will develop standards, specifications, engineering studies, calculations, evaluations, design documents associated with the planning, design, construction and maintenance of SVP substations, Transmission system, distribution system and other utility facilities. The candidates must have extensive experience in High voltage Substation and Transmission line design, plan, standard and specification preparation. The candidates must have proven problem solving skills and  excellent communication skills.

 

As a member of the City's Unclassified Service, this is an "at-will" position and the incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager.

 

 

Additional Information:

Applications must be filled out completely (e.g. do not write “see resume, NA, or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Resume and, 2) Certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

 

Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. Applications must be submitted by the filing deadline of Friday, February 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM.

 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW.

 

The annual salary range for this position is $214,236.60 - $277,243.92. This position may be filled at or near the minimum of the salary range.

 

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in electrical, mechanical, civil or other related field of engineering

 

Minimum Experience Requirements:

• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in electric utility engineering work
• Candidates from a non-accredited college or university must demonstrate educational equivalency by registration as a professional electrical, mechanical or civil engineer in the State of California

 

Acceptable Substitution:

• A Master's Degree in electrical, mechanical or civil engineering, or business or public administration from an accredited college may be substituted for one year of experience

 

License/Certifications:

• Possession of a certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California is required
• Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is required at the time of appointment and for duration of employment

 

Other Requirements: 

• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment
• May be required to work unusual hours in emergency situations
• Required to pass initial and periodic comprehensive background checks, which may include fingerprinting, to meet Federal, State, and /or industry security requirements

 

Follow this link to view the entire Class Specification, which includes more information on Typical Duties and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.

Assistant Water Resources Specialist I: $112,985.60 - $144,539.20 Annually
Assistant Water Resources Specialist II: $124,696.00 - $159,619.20 Annually
OR
Assistant Engineer I - Civil: $112,985.60 - $144,539.20 Annually
Assistant Engineer II - Civil: $124,696.00 - $159,619.20 Annually

Overview:

Do you want to be part of a dynamic team that helps ensure sustainable groundwater supplies? Valley Water is seeking qualified candidates to join the Groundwater Management Unit. This position supports groundwater supply and planning programs, contributing to sustainable water management, simulating current and future groundwater supply conditions, and performing hydrogeologic and engineering analyses. Related analyses include using and maintaining numerical groundwater models, mass balance, statistics, or other methods to prepare or review hydrogeologic reports and studies. Work directly supports water supply operations, managed aquifer recharge, drought response, Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) compliance reporting, and the Water Supply Master Plan. Additional responsibilities may include environmental stewardship projects, land use reviews, and field monitoring activities.

This is a single position, for which the incumbent would be hired as either an Assistant Engineer I/ II or an Assistant Water Resources Specialist I/II. There are multiple ways a candidate may develop the skills and experience required to be successful in this role. Depending on the background and experience of the selected candidate, the exact classification will be determined at the point of hire.

Our Commitment: 
We are committed to building and sustaining a working environment where all individuals are respected and valued. We believe every member of our team brings unique perspectives that enhance our ability to serve the public effectively. By fostering a workplace with employees from the communities we serve, we broaden our collective understanding of the world around us and strengthen our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.

About Valley Water:
Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.

 

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct groundwater modeling, hydrogeologic studies, and investigations using numerical groundwater models, statistics, or other methods to support water supply operations and planning. 
• Prepare and review reports regarding issues such as groundwater modeling and supply conditions, groundwater monitoring and protection, and surface water/groundwater interaction. 
• Support Valley Water's continued compliance with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act.
• Analyze proposed projects, land use, regulations, and policies and develop recommendations for groundwater protection.
• Collect, validate, and/or interpret hydrogeologic data related to groundwater levels, groundwater quality, surface water, seawater intrusion, and land subsidence.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:

Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.

Ideal Experience:

Assistant Water Resources Specialist I or Assistant Engineer I

No experience is required. Preferred academic/research focus includes:

• Academic projects or research in groundwater management and hydrogeology including issues like groundwater/surface water interaction and/or seawater intrusion. 
• Use of Microsoft Excel, groundwater flow models, geographic information system (GIS), statistics, and computer programming to support academic or research projects.

Assistant Water Resources Specialist II or Assistant Engineer II

Two (2) years of professional level experience with responsibility for compliance with environmental permitting, water supply planning or distribution, groundwater management, mitigation of natural resource impacts, or hydrogeology or engineering civil.

• Project based work experience in groundwater management and hydrogeology including issues like groundwater overdraft, managed aquifer recharge, groundwater/surface water interaction, and/or seawater intrusion. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including experience with functions, graphs, and pivot tables in Excel. 
• Proficiency using and maintaining groundwater flow models. 
• Experience using GIS and performing statistical analysis (e.g., trend test), and use of computer programming language.

Ideal Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Assistant Water Resources Specialist I or Assistant Engineer I

• Effectively analyze, interpret, summarize, and present technical information and data. 
• Organize and prioritize multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; set priorities and meet critical time deadlines. 
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, external agencies, the public, vendors, and contractors.
• Some knowledge of principles, practices, concepts, and standards of water resources management, hydrogeology, geology, and hydrology.
• Some knowledge of principles, practices, theories, and methods of groundwater modeling, groundwater budgets, and long-term water supply analysis.
• Practices of researching water resources issues and preparing and presenting effective and technical reports.

Assistant Water Resources Specialist II or Assistant Engineer II (in addition to level I)

• Evaluate alternatives, make sound recommendations, and prepare effective technical reports. 
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. 
• Thorough knowledge of principles, practices, concepts, and standards of water resources management, hydrogeology, geology, and hydrology.
• Proficiency in numerical groundwater flow modeling, groundwater budgets, and long-term water supply analysis.
• Recent and on-going water resources related developments, including information technology, current literature, and sources of information related to the operations of assigned areas of responsibility.
• Independently conduct comprehensive water resources studies, investigations, and analyses.
• Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations, and Valley Water’s water resources policies and procedures.
• Effectively represent the unit and Valley Water in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, and various businesses, professional, and regulatory organizations and in meetings with individuals.

Ideal Training and Education:

Assistant Water Resources Specialist I/II

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in water resources management, natural resources management, planning, civil or other field of engineering, geology, physical sciences, earth sciences, natural sciences or a field related to assigned functional area(s). 

Assistant Engineer - Civil I/II

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in civil engineering or a field related to assigned functional area(s).

OR  

Possession of a valid California Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certificate with two (2) years of associated paraprofessional engineering experience.

Required License or Certificate

Registration with the State of California as a Professional Geologist (PG) or Professional Engineer (PE) is a plus. (if registered, a 2.5% differential will apply).

To review the Classification Specification for the Assistant Water Resources Specialist I/II, please click here
To review the Classification Specification for the Assistant Engineer I/II - Civil, please click here

Groundwater Management Unit (Position Code 76) 
Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date.

 

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 40% remote and 60% onsite.

Learn more about this exciting opportunity by clicking the link below!

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/marinwater/jobs/5188525/landscape-and-facilities-maintenance-coordinator?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Learn more about this exciting opportunity by clicking the link below!

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/marinwater/jobs/5180462/administrative-analyst?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Learn more about this exciting opportunity by clicking the link below!

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/marinwater/jobs/5177819/watershed-aide-vegetation-management?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

The work assignments can vary from field maintenance to the office environment. Incumbents are encouraged to use various software programs and applications for field verification, audits and reports. Our service area is “right sized” for a wide range of field activities. Ideal candidates will be exposed to small maintenance and customer service tasks to complex system improvements and repairs. Water System Operators will be exposed to GIS use and training in addition to regulatory structure and reporting. You will find a supportive atmosphere that will assist in reaching common goals in water distribution and service. Upward mobility is encouraged through training and education and recognizing the individual’s strengths and experience.

 

Water System Operator I

This is the entry-level class in the Water System Operator classification series. This class is responsible for providing support for assigned water operations and programs. Initially under close supervision, incumbents with basic maintenance experience learn City infrastructure, systems and facilities, use of tools and equipment, and a wide variety of practices and procedures. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.

 

Water System Operator II

This is the journey-level class in the Water System Operator classification series responsible for performing the full range of technical duties required to ensure that City infrastructure, systems, and facilities to which assigned are maintained in a safe and effective working condition and provide the highest level of safety for public use. Responsibilities include inspecting and attending to assigned areas in a timely manner, and performing a wide variety of tasks in the maintenance and repair of assigned facilities and systems. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from Senior Water System Operator in that the latter is responsible for technical and functional supervision of lower-level maintenance staff and for performing the most complex duties assigned to the series.

 

Senior Water System Operator 

This is the advanced journey-level in the water system operator classification series that performs the most complex duties required to ensure that City infrastructure, systems, and facilities are maintained in a safe and effective working condition and provide the highest level of safety for public use. Responsibilities include inspecting and attending to assigned areas in a timely manner, and performing a wide variety of tasks in the maintenance and repair of assigned facilities and systems. Incumbents regularly work on tasks that are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment. Positions in this classification rely on experience and judgment to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the assigned section. The work involves problem-solving of unique issues or increasingly complex problems without precedent and/or structure. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver work products. This class is distinguished from the chief water operator in that the latter is the full supervisory-level class in the series responsible for organizing, assigning, supervising, and reviewing the work of assigned staff involved in water quality and operations.

A job description, including examples of typical job functions and qualifying knowledge, skills, and abilities, is available by clicking on the Job Description link.

SUPVERVISNG WATER QUALITY SPECIALIST
Utilities Department, Water Section 
$8,000.33 – $11,257.00 Monthly Plus Excellent Benefits

The final three steps (Step F, Step G, and Step H) included in the salary range listed above are available to employees in this job classification after completion of five years of service (Step F), ten years of service (Step G), and 15 years of service (Step H),  one year at the prior step, and a good performance evaluation.  Initial salary placement is typically at the entry point of the range unless the candidate has prior lateral work experience which may warrant initial placement at a higher step.

Opportunity to work a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off.

Note: To foster teamwork and collaboration in the department, organization-wide, and in the community, this full-time position works on-site/in-person.

ABOUT THE POSITION
The City of Gilroy is seeking a knowledgeable, motivated, and service oriented Supervising Water Quality Specialist to join our Utilities Department. This vital supervisory role supports the community by ensuring that Gilroy’s potable and recycled water systems meet the highest standards of safety, reliability and environmental compliance.

In this exciting opportunity, the Supervising Water Quality Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the Water Systems Superintendent performing journey-level duties and will supervise a variety of work in the collection and testing of water samples, maintenance of records and generation of reports relating to water quality, and research and evaluation of existing and proposed regulations to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal water quality regulations. The Supervising Water Quality Specialist will lead the development and implementation of the Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Control Programs and will perform work associated with the operation, construction, and maintenance of the water system. 

This is a non-exempt, supervisory position that is represented by AFSCME, Local 101, Supervisory Unit. 

This position is ideal for individuals who thrive in both field and office environments, enjoy mentoring others and value public service. You will play a key part in safeguarding public health, interpreting data, preparing reports, recommending corrective actions, improving operational practices and support the long-term sustainability of Gilroy’s water resources. 

THE TEAM AND DEPARTMENT
The Water Section is dedicated to providing high quality water and reliable services to our customers in a safe and timely manner. We promote smart, long-term and sustainable use of water resources. We accomplish this by managing our resources, utilizing practical technologies, and providing employees with opportunities for growth and achievement.

 

CANDIDATE PERSPECTIVE
This position offers exceptional opportunities for professional development by allowing you to gain advanced experience in water quality, distribution, treatment, and regulatory compliance. You will expand your leadership capabilities through supervisory responsibilities, training experience, and mentorship opportunities, while strengthening your technical knowledge in specialized areas such as backflow prevention, cross connection control and SCADA systems, telemetry and advanced water testing equipment. The role also provides access to City-supported professional training, certifications, and continuing education, helping you build expertise that directly supports long-term infrastructure improvements and the modernization of water systems. Altogether, this position establishes a strong foundation for growth into higher supervisory or managerial roles within municipal water operations. 

 

EXAMPLES OF FIRST YEAR PROJECTS/ASSIGNMENTS:

• Refine improvements to water quality sampling schedules, workflows, and documentation process. 
• Completion of the Annual Water Quality Report, SWRCB Electronic Annual Report and the Annual Water Loss Audit. 
• Implementation of Gilroy’s Backflow Prevention Program. 
• Participate in updating and improving regulatory reporting templates and submission processes. 
• Support hydrant and valve maintenance programs including data tracking and field coordination. 

 

Overview:

We are seeking a Water Plant Operator to join Valley Water’s South Treatment Operations Unit. This position will perform the duties of a state-designated shift operator in the monitoring and operation of a water treatment plant, to provide relief operations shift coverage and, as necessary, to perform the duties of an Assistant Water Plant Operator. The Water Plant Operator will use the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor and control plant operations. They will be responsible for analyzing data to ensure compliance with all State and Federal drinking water standards and performing administrative procedures. The Water Plant Operator will train and sign-off training checklists for lower-level operations staff. They will perform scheduled and emergency plant shutdowns and start-ups. Additionally, they will complete safety trainings and follow safety protocols.

Our Commitment: 
We are committed to building and sustaining a working environment where all individuals are respected and valued. We believe every member of our team brings unique perspectives that enhance our ability to serve the public effectively. By fostering a workplace with employees from the communities we serve, we broaden our collective understanding of the world around us and strengthen our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.

About Valley Water:
Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• As the state-designated shift operator, oversee all plant activities on an assigned shift; maintain situational awareness of, or assist in, maintenance, engineering, and construction work, special projects, contractors, non-plant Valley Water employees, and all plant visitors; represent the treatment plant with personnel located offsite such as retailers, regulators, other Valley Water plants and support units, and other water agencies; direct the activities of the operator on shift; and formulate production and quality related decisions. 
• Use the plant's computer based Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor and control plant operations; investigate and respond to alarms; scan multiple computer monitors simultaneously; navigate a multitude of program screens to observe, track, and retrieve on-line instrument readings for water, chemicals, and equipment. 
• Perform various administrative tasks such as data entry into spreadsheets and database programs, initiate and follow up on work orders for preventative and corrective maintenance; create and revise standard operating procedures; order chemicals; maintain, compile, and review plant operations data; complete entries into the plant's logbook. 
• Serve in the role of Relief Operator on as needed/rotational basis. 
• Train lower-level operator staff; sign off on training checklists.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:

Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.

Ideal Experience:

Water Plant Operator Experience: Three (3) years of experience performing work as a licensed operator at a water treatment plant that is rated as a T-4 or higher facility.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Working experience/expertise in operating and troubleshooting standard and advanced water treatment plant equipment 
• Proficient in water treatment math and chemistry 
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), SCADA, Maximo.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Understanding of key regulations, reporting procedures and requirements of drinking water 
• Knowledge of safe work practices around water treatment plant chemicals and equipment
• Knowledge of practices and responsibilities of leading the work of assigned staff 
• Understanding and familiarity with new or pending regulations such as algal toxicity.

Ideal Training and Education:

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by six (6) quarter units in chemistry and six (6) quarter units in math from an accredited college.

Required License or Certificate

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Individuals who do not meet the driver's license requirement due to a disability will be considered for a reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
• Water Plant Operator License or Certificate: Possession of a valid Grade T3 Water Treatment Operator certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.

To review the Classification Specification, please click here (Download PDF reader)

South Water Treatment Unit (Position Code 251) 

Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date.

This position requires the individual to be onsite and is typically not a teleworking position.

The District is looking for a Plant Operator Grade III to help operate and maintain our wastewater treatment and recycled water facilities. In this role, you’ll inspect, monitor, and maintain plant systems and equipment to ensure reliable and compliant operation. You’ll work independently, use sound judgment in daily activities, and respond to unusual or emergency situations as needed. This position is a great opportunity for an experienced operator ready to take on full journey-level responsibilities within our team.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.

About Oceanside’s Water Utilities Department & Our Water Treatment Plants
The City of Oceanside is accepting applications for the position of Water Treatment Superintendent in the Water Treatment Plants Division, which is responsible for the efficient production and delivery of safe drinking water to all Oceanside residents.

The Oceanside Water Utilities Department is an innovative and forward-looking organization whose goal it is to ensure ongoing access to safe, affordable drinking water & reliable wastewater collection & treatment services by maintaining top talent, resource resiliency, dependability, and system efficiency.

About the position
Under the general direction of the Water Utilities Division Manager, the Superintendent will supervise, plan and coordinate the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, oversee operation of water testing and labs, participate in capital improvement projects related to water treatment facilities, and perform a variety of related tasks. This position is essential to ensuring our dependable water treatment system continues to operate well.

You should be excited about this opportunity because you will…

• Apply various levels of training and experience to become an integral part of our water treatment system.
• Oversee regulatory compliance and day-to-day operations of water treatment facilities.
• Be progressively relied to manage each aspect of our water treatment plants.
• Collaborate with operation and maintenance staff to improve processes and protect our capital assets.
• Utilize a modernized SCADA system to remotely monitor processes in addition to manually reading and operating the system.

Who we are looking for…
The ideal candidate for this position will be confident in water treatment processes and plant oversight, and will be able to make decisions that ensure safe, efficient and reliable production of drinking water for Oceanside’s residents, businesses and tourists.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.